What NOT To Do When Wearing Contacts: A Comprehensive Guide

Knowing the right way to handle and wear contact lenses is important for preserving the health of your eyes. Understanding what you should avoid doing when wearing contacts is just as necessary. This article will discuss the most important “don’ts” that contact lens wearers must remember.

Don’t Rub Your Eyes

You might need to rub your eyes when they’re dry or itchy, but this can cause damage if you wear contacts. Rubbing can shift the lens out of place, potentially scratching the surface of your eye. Persistent friction from this can cause the lens to tear, increasing the chance for bacteria and other pathogens to cause infections. Over time, repeated rubbing can even cause structural changes to the cornea, impairing your vision.

If your eyes feel dry or irritated:

• Use lubricating eye drops: These are specially formulated for contact lens users to relieve dryness or irritation.

• Practice the 20-20-20 rule: If you spend much time in front of screens, remember to look away at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to reduce eye strain.

• Blink more often: Regular, conscious blinking can help refresh the tear film and distribute natural oils across the surface of the eye.

• Check your environment: Avoid smoky, dusty, or windy conditions that can dry out your eyes.
• Stay hydrated: Drink enough water to help maintain moisture in your eyes.

If persistent discomfort persists, remove your contacts and rest your eyes. If the irritation continues, seek advice from an optometrist.

Don’t Touch Your Contacts With Dirty Hands

Proper hygiene is important when handling contact lenses. Your hands come into contact with different things throughout the day, and transferring this dirt and bacteria to your lenses can cause infections. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling your lenses.

Don’t Leave Makeup On Your Lenses

Makeup particles can get trapped under contact lenses, causing discomfort and infections. Tiny particles from mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow can slip under the lenses, causing irritation and disrupting vision.

Here’s how to protect your contact lenses while wearing makeup:

• Apply contacts first: Always put on your contact lenses before applying makeup. This can prevent makeup particles from getting trapped under the lenses.

• Choose oil-free and fragrance-free: These types of makeup are less likely to irritate your eyes or damage your lenses.

• Use water-based makeup: Water-based makeup products are less likely to smear on your lenses than oil-based ones.

• Avoid applying eyeliner on the inner rim of your lashes: This can block the oil glands that contribute to the formation of a protective tear film on your lenses.

• Use hypoallergenic makeup: Hypoallergenic products are designed to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction, making them safer for contact lens wearers.

• Proper removal: Remove your contact lenses before taking off your makeup. Use a gentle, oil-free makeup remover.

By following these steps, you can help to keep your contact lenses clean and your eyes comfortable while still enjoying the use of makeup.

Don’t Use Old Cleaning Solution

Reusing the same contact lens solution can breed bacteria, which can then transfer to your eyes. Always use fresh solutions each time you store your lenses. It’s also good practice to rinse your contact lens case with a fresh solution and let it air dry daily.

Don’t Let Your Lenses Come Into Contact With Water

Water, whether tap, distilled, or even swimming pool water, can pose risks when it comes in contact with your lenses. Microorganisms in water, such as the Acanthamoeba organism, can attach to your contact lenses and cause serious infections or, worse, vision loss. In addition, water can alter the shape of your lenses, leading to a poor fit and discomfort. If you need to rinse your lenses, always use a fresh contact solution instead of water.

Don’t Sleep With Your Contacts In

Only sleep with your contacts if your optometrist has given you explicit permission. Closed eyes provide a warm, moist environment perfect for bacteria growth. Sleeping with your contacts in can also cause oxygen deprivation, which can lead to serious eye damage. Make it a habit to remove your lenses every night before bed.

A Guide on Properly Wearing Your Contacts

While wearing contacts can enhance your vision without needing glasses, they require proper care and handling. Remembering these “don’ts” isn’t just about following rules; it’s about preserving your eye health and ensuring the most comfortable and effective contact lens experience. From proper hygiene to avoiding water contact, each step plays its part in keeping your eyes healthy.

Don’t hesitate to contact your optometrist or eye care professional if you have questions or concerns. After all, they help ensure you’re using your contact lenses safely and effectively.